The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo has been appointed by Grand Départ GB 2027 to deliver the opening moment of the Grand Départ – the iconic official team presentation.

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo will stage and produce an opening ceremony celebration to begin the Grand Départ, including the official Presentation of Riders Ceremony for the 2027 Tour de France, on the early evening of June 30. The event will see the world’s top elite cyclists and their teams introduced to fans, ahead of the stage starting in Edinburgh on July 2, during a spectacular event to be held at The Edinburgh Castle Esplanade.

Paul Bush, managing director of Grand Départ, said: “The Grand Départ is always a celebration of sport, culture, and community, and the 2027 edition promises to be something truly special. Partnering with The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo to deliver the presentation of riders ceremony allows us to begin the Grand Départ celebrations on a stage unlike any other, in a way that honours British traditions, while sharing our creativity and spirit with the world. The Tattoo’s ability to create unforgettable large-scale performances will give the riders, and millions of fans, an opening that sets the tone for the entire Grand Départ and will be remembered long after the peloton has crossed the finish line in Paris.”

Positioning Edinburgh Castle at the heart of an unforgettable international moment for sport and culture, a live audience of 8,500 fans within the arena – and millions watching live globally – will experience a production filled with music, movement, special effects, and storytelling.

In addition to fans at Edinburgh Castle, thousands more are expected to line the Royal Mile to join in the celebrations to ensure that as many fans and residents as possible can watch.

The event will honour the athletes, celebrate the cultures and landscapes of Scotland, England, and Wales, and set the tone for their epic journey of the men’s Tour de France across its opening three stages through the Scottish Borders, the Lake District and north west England, and the heart of Wales from July 2-4, 2027, before Le Tour continues in France.

Jason Barrett, chief executive of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo said: “We are thrilled to bring the artistry and energy of the Tattoo to the Riders Presentation Ceremony on the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade next year. This event is not only a chance to showcase the United Kingdom and Scotland to a global audience, honour the athletes, and inspire millions, it’s also a celebration of our ability to adapt and innovate.

“For over 75 years, the Tattoo has delivered unforgettable performances rooted in Scottish tradition, but this marks an exciting new chapter as we expand our production portfolio into other iconic major international events. By partnering with the Tour de France, two globally recognised national brands on a world stage, we are creating an experience that will resonate far beyond Edinburgh, leaving a legacy for audiences both at home and abroad.”